KATHMANDU: The Public Service Commission (PSC) has postponed its scheduled examinations for Jestha 15 (May 29) in Kathmandu, citing possible security risks due to planned demonstrations by two opposing political forces.

According to the Commission, the decision was taken in light of rallies announced by both the ruling CPN-UML and royalist groups on the same day.

The PSC had planned to conduct examinations to fill vacant posts at the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), with nearly 5,000 applicants registered.

The rescheduling comes amid rising political tensions after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli recently instructed his party cadres that Kathmandu’s streets must be under UML’s control on May 29.

His remarks, interpreted as a direct challenge to royalist groups preparing for a pro-monarchy show of strength on Republic Day, have been seen as a potential catalyst for confrontation.

May 29, celebrated as Republic Day in Nepal, has become a flashpoint this year with monarchist factions intensifying their call for a return to the monarchy.

The CPN-UML, leading the coalition government, is preparing for a counter-show of force to assert its claim as the guardian of the republic.

Security agencies have reportedly raised concerns over the risk of street clashes, prompting the PSC to revise its exam date.